yarn

New evidence for Neolithic textiles in the Orkney Islands

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Recently, new evidence for Neolithic fabric was found impressed on a sherd in the Orkney Islands. In an area where the environment is not conducive to preservation of textile, archaeologists must look for evidence in unconventional ways. Recently, a team from The University of the Highlands and the Islands in Scotland used Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI) to identify the impression of woven fabric on a sherd. Chris and Rachel discuss the fabric impression, how it could have been made, and what the broader implication are of this discovery.

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The cord impression on the vessel is clearly visible, with the textile imprint to the right. [Image: UHI Archaeology Institute]

The cord impression on the vessel is clearly visible, with the textile imprint to the right. [Image: UHI Archaeology Institute]

Neanderthals Making Yarn?!

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This is a crossover episode with Chris Webster and The Archaeology Show!

Recently, evidence of twisted cord was discovered on a Neanderthal archaeological site. While the exact use of this cord is unknown, we discuss our theories for how Neanderthals could have applied this technology to everyday life. Most importantly, this discovery contributes to breaking down the myth that Neanderthals were technologically inferior to their human contemporaries.

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Find this show on the educational podcast app, Lyceum.fm!

The History of Faroese Lace - Ep S1E6

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In the first half of this episode we delve into the history, construction methods, and traditional stitches used in Faroese Lace knitting. Then, we’ll discuss finishing up the Zetland shawl!

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History of Fabric Pt 2 - Ep 02

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Have you ever looked at a piece of knitting and wondered, “How did they figure out how to DO that with just two needles and string?” Whether you’re a picker or a thrower, those techniques had to come from somewhere, and their origins may surprise you.

Rachel Roden and Heather Boyd look at knitting techniques with the eyes of designers, through the lens of archaeology: each episode travels the world to dig up and discuss a different technique, and then applies it to a clever pattern designed by Rachel.

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History of Fabric Pt 1 - Ep 01

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Have you ever looked at a piece of knitting and wondered, “How did they figure out how to DO that with just two needles and string?” Whether you’re a picker or a thrower, those techniques had to come from somewhere, and their origins may surprise you.

Rachel Roden and Heather Boyd look at knitting techniques with the eyes of designers, through the lens of archaeology: each episode travels the world to dig up and discuss a different technique, and then applies it to a clever pattern designed by Rachel.

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